A firefighter is fighting for his life after falling through the roof of a residential garage in Fresno, California. Sunday afternoon, the 25-year veteran of the Fresno fire department had climbed onto the roof of a garage as his colleagues were attempting to put out the blaze inside a one-story garage.

Image source: ABC30.com

A bystander happened to catch the moment the roof crumbled beneath him and the firefighter was swallowed up by the inferno.

Image source: ABC30.com

Screams can be heard from the people watching in horror as flames shot into the sky from the raging fire.

Image source: ABC30.com

Due to the intense heat from the fire, it took a couple of minutes for firefighters to open the garage door and rescue the man. Reports say he suffered burns on approximately 70 percent of his body.

Fresno Fire Chief Kerri Donis told KFSN-TV, "He did have his mask intact," adding, "There were some other burns on his back, around his legs, so they're pretty much in all areas of his body."

The department's Twitter account posted a statement of appreciation of all the support for their fallen comrade.

Thanks to all who have reached out to FFD. This is a difficult time for all of us and our thoughts and prayers are w/our FF and his family.

Thanks to all who have reached out to FFD. This is a difficult time for all of us and our thoughts and prayers are w/our FF and his family.

— Fresno Fire PIO (@FresnoFire) March 30, 2015

 

Watch the dramatic video: (CONTENT WARNING: explicit language)

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